What's In It
Based on the actual screenplayWe're re-reading this screenplay with our upgraded analysis. Scene-by-scene moment counts aren't available for Father Stu yet — the summaries below are from our earlier read-through. Check back soon.
ViolenceMild▼
LanguageExtreme▼
Scary ScenesMild▼
RomanceMild▼
SubstancesModerate▼
StimulationVery Mild▼
Despite being a faith-based film with an inspiring message, it contains about 100 uses of strong profanity including the f-word, making the language much harsher than typical religious films.
About Father Stu
Father Stu tells the true story of Stuart Long, a foul-mouthed amateur boxer from Helena, Montana, who moves to California to pursue acting and ends up working in a grocery store. After a near-fatal motorcycle accident and vision of the Virgin Mary, he transforms his life and pursues becoming a Catholic priest, eventually serving others despite developing a debilitating muscular disease.
Family Takeaways from Father Stu
What it gets right
- ✓Shows that suffering can be meaningful - Stu decides his illness draws him closer to Christ's suffering
- ✓Demonstrates the power of family reconciliation as Stu's father changes and becomes supportive
- ✓Shows how Stu connects with prison inmates using his authentic, unpolished approach to help them not give up
Father Stu Cultural & Values Guide
Cultural & Values Guide
The entire film centers on Stuart Long's conversion to Catholicism and his journey to priesthood despite terminal illness. Faith, redemption, and God's calling are the core narrative driving forces throughout.
Stu's relationship with his estranged father and his mother's unwavering support form the emotional backbone of the story. The film emphasizes reconciliation, forgiveness, and family bonds as essential to Stu's spiritual transformation.
Community Notes
- Some Catholic reviewers have questioned whether the extensive profanity is necessary to show the character's sinfulness credibly
- The R-rating may limit the film's reach among faith-based audiences who typically avoid R-rated content
Is Father Stu Appropriate for Your Child's Age?
Individual children may vary — use your judgment.
Parents also ask about Father Stu
- Is Father Stu appropriate for a 15-year-old?
- Does Father Stu have violence?
- Is Father Stu OK for kids?
- What is the age rating for Father Stu?
